Brussels, July 17, 2014

Up early to take the Thalys hi-speed train to Brussels.  One hour and 24 minutes!  Took a taxi up to the Petit Sablon where we met my old friend from Sinclair Oil days, Estelle, for lunch at the Vieux Saint Martin.  Ken went off to explore the city; Estelle and I stayed at the restaurant all day, catching up and reminiscing. We've known each other for 50 years!

We met Ken in the Grand' Place for dinner at the Roy d'Espagne where he and I both had Luffe dark beer for the first time.  Interesting taste that grows on you.

Stock photos.  I did not take any photos this trip.

Took a late train back to Paris...and train was late!  So we did not get back to the apartment until past 11:30.

On the way in to the Gare du Nord, we glimpsed the Sacré Coeur all lit up.  

The  taxi ride back was wonderful...through lighted side streets filled with café life, past illuminated iconic buildings and squares, and a magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower lit up with digitally programmed flashing lights.